Your guide to Homocysteine.

Explore the importance of Homocysteine for your health and longevity with Mito Health's detailed biomarker analysis. Our detailed reports cover key biomarkers, providing essential insights to help you make informed decisions for a healthier, longer life.

What is Homocysteine?

Homocysteine is an important amino-acid produced by our body from another amino-acid, methionine, as part of the process of methylation.

What does it assess?

Homocysteine is normally excreted in the urine or recycled back into other amino acids, a process that is mainly regulated by B vitamins and betaine. High levels have been associated with oxidative stress and inflammation, cognitive decline and heart disease.

How do I optimize my Homocysteine levels?

Tip 1

Homocysteine metabolism is dependent on vitamins B6, B12, and folate. These vitamins help convert homocysteine into less harmful substances like methionine and cysteine. Ensure your diet includes folate-rich foods, B12-rich foods, and B6-rich foods. If dietary intake is insufficient, consider supplementation after consulting a healthcare provider.

Tip 2

Excessive alcohol intake can interfere with the absorption and metabolism of B vitamins, contributing to elevated homocysteine levels. Reducing alcohol intake can help optimize B vitamin levels and subsequently support homocysteine balance.

Tip 3

Chronic inflammation and high stress can elevate homocysteine levels. Reducing chronic inflammation through a healthy diet, regular exercise, and stress management techniques can help maintain normal homocysteine levels.

What do high and low levels of Homocysteine mean?

High homocysteine levels can be due to inadequate intake of vitamins B6, B9 (folate) and B12, as well as inadequate choline and betaine intake in the diet. Additionally, certain genetic mutations (relating to the MTHFR gene) affect how well our body is able to metabolise homocysteine. Higher levels are associated with increased risk of cardiovascular disease and cognitive decline.

Having low homocysteine levels in the blood is generally considered healthy and is not typically a cause for concern. Low levels of homocysteine are associated with better cardiovascular and cognitive health.

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FAQs

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Is your health screening claimable by insurance or company benefits?

  • Yes, our health screening is recognised by insurance & corporate companies as a health screening panel. You will be issued an official invoice which can be used to file a claim.

What do I need to take note of before my blood test?

  • You’ll be required to fast 8 hours before the blood draw. Plain water is allowed.
  • No strenuous exercise 12 hours prior to the test.

Do I have to fast before the blood test?

  • Yes, you’ll be required to fast 8 hours before your blood draw. Plain water is allowed.

Do I have to give my urine & stool samples?

  • Yes, you will be required to provide urine & stool samples. Samples can be collected the same day as your blood draw, as the containers will be sent to you in advance. If you’re not able to produce the samples on the same day, they can be picked up on a separate arranged day.

How long does the health screening take?

  • Just 15-20 minutes! We’ll collect your blood sample & key biometrics. Stool & urine samples can be collected on the same day or in a separate arrangement.

How often should I do a health screening?

  • Doctors recommend at least twice a year, so you can also measure before & after any health interventions. 
  • Our health screening is also complementary to traditional GP & Hospital health screenings if you have already done your health screening for the year. Our test report offers more in-depth insights & tailored health recommendations. You can view examples of the insights on our demo dashboard here. 
  • Our panel of biomarkers not only extends your lifespan with early illness detection, but they also provide helpful insights to how you can feel & move better. Learn more about our biomarkers here. 

Why is health screening important?

  • Long-term health: Regular screenings can help you stay healthy throughout your life. By identifying and addressing potential problems early on, you can reduce your risk of developing more serious health problems down the road.
  • Early treatment is better: Many health conditions are easier and more affordable to treat when caught early. Screenings can help identify these issues before they become more serious and require more extensive treatment.
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